Reimagining Safety Movie: A Discussion

Matthew was born and raised in Los Angeles and has been in the entertainment business for most of his adult life — first in music and then as an award-winning writer/director. During the pandemic, he returned to school to obtain a Master's degree in Public Administration so that he could have more of an impact in helping to create communities that work for everyone. His course of study involved a deep dive into understanding policing, the carceral system, and public safety. Now, his work involves utilizing art to influence positive change.Reimagining SafetySynopsis:Worldwide protests following the 2020 murder of George Floyd included calls to defund or abolish the police until a sharp rise in crime gave politicians and police supporters the fuel they needed to suppress the movement. Unfortunately, a detailed conversation about transforming public safety was never had. In Reimagining Safety (shot on iPhone), 10 experts (including LA County District Attorney George Gascón, USC Law professor Dr. Jody Armour and law enforcement expert Alex S Vitale) discuss the false premise that more police and more prisons make us safer. It does this while providing practical and actionable solutions toward achieving systems of safety that work for everyone.The film is already receiving very positive feedback and support from social justice organizations and newly elected progressive leaders. The next screening is at The People's Film Festival June 4, in Harlem, New YorkTrailer: https://vimeo.com/matthewsolomonfilms/rstrailerWebsite: https://www.reimaginingsafetymovie.comhttps://www.matthewsolomonconsulting.com